Based on the popular Passat platform, the 2010 Volkswagen CC "four-door" coupe casts off the stoic styling of its older brother, adding a sporty and elegant appeal to a functional four-door sedan. Unlike the Passat, the CC can still be had with a choice of four or six-cylinder engines, a manual or automatic transmission and front or 4MOTION all-wheel-drive. Of course, traditional sedan buyers probably won't be happy with the un-sedan like rear seat accommodations, lack of a folding rear seat and four-passenger seating, but, as Billy Crystal once mused, "sometimes, darling, it's better to look good than to feel good." Bearing more than just a passing resemblance to the ultra-luxururious, ultra-expensive Mercedes-Benz CLS, the 2010 Volkswagen CC plays more in the same league as the Nissan Maxima, Acura TL and Chrysler 300.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you sometimes need the versatility of four-doors, but don't mind sacrificing some interior accommodations in exchange for a stylish exterior that is super-car chic, the CC may be the right choice for you.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you sometimes need to carry more than four passengers, have tall kids or require the added space afforded by a folding rear seat (the CC has only a small pass-through), the Passat may be a better choice.

Driving Impressions
The 2010 VW CC is a wonderful driver's car. The steering is precise without too much assist, the suspension strikes just the right balance between comfort and performance handling and...

the interior sound levels at speed are remarkably minimal. The standard six-speed manual seems in character with this sporty sedan, but it's the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic available only with the 2.0-liter turbo that really makes this car a delight to drive. For the money, the 200-horsepower turbocharged engine has plenty of power to move the CC, and its fuel economy figures rival some compact cars. Moving into the VR6 brings more low-end torque for faster starts and passing, but the six-speed Tiptronic automatic's slower response time just doesn't inspire the kind of fun-to-drive playfulness found with the DSG automatic.

Favorite Features

Six-Speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG)Employing two clutches, one holding gears 1, 3 and 5, the other assigned to 2, 4 and 6, the DSG automatic can make instantaneous gear changes allowing it to outperform even the best manual (and its operator).

12-way Adjustable SeatsSeat comfort is paramount to long drives and the CC's 12-way power adjustable heated driver's seat with four-way power lumbar support is among the best in the business.

2010 Volkswagen CC Details

Interior

The 2010 Volkswagen CC's interior is, in a word, gorgeous. Although the dash and console are typical VW fare, it's the interior fabrics, colors and seat sew patterns that draw one in. Ribbed stitching on the seats, a choice of solid or two-tone perforated leather (leatherette is standard) and a rear seat split in two by a roll-top center console and folding ski pass-through comprise the most striking design elements. Front seat passenger will feel completely comfortable, but rear passengers measuring six-foot or better will find headroom is anything but plentiful. The C-pillars also have such a prominent inward slant that our rear passengers reported them uncomfortably close to their head.

Exterior

Volkswagen calls the CC a "coupe" – despite its four doors and four-passenger capacity – because of its coupe-like profile and sharply tapered rear C-pillar. Although based on the Passat platform, the CC sits lower to the ground and is both longer and wider than the Passat; it is a handsome design that can definitely turns heads. Unique to the CC are its frameless doors (the window glass has no frame surrounding it), a feature that, with age, can sometimes lead to wind and moisture intrusion. Upper-end VR6 models are fitted with Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, while all models include fog lamps and standard alloy wheels.

Options for the Volkswagen CC vary by trim and engine choice. The Sport can be equipped with a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic transmission (standard on Luxury trim), rear side airbags and an iPod interface. Stepping into the Luxury trim adds the DSG transmission, a panoramic power sunroof, three-position memory for driver's seat and side mirrors, leather seating and Park Distance Control ultrasonic park assist. Options for the VR6 trim include 4MOTION all-wheel drive and 19-inch wheels, while all but the Sport trim can be equipped with touch-screen DVD navigation and rearview camera.

Under the Hood

2010 VW CC owners have a tough choice on their hands. The Sport and Luxury trims are outfitted with Volkswagen's award-winning 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the VR6 and VR6 4MOTION have the equally legendary 3.6-liter VR6 six-cylinder powerplant. With 200 horsepower, the 2.0-liter turbo provides plenty of go power with no sign of turbo lag or annoying vibration. The VR6, on the other hand, offers 80 more horsepower and a big boost in torque, making it well suited for the extra weight added to the 4MOTION trim.

"I just bought a 2013 CC Sport Plus and I have to say this is one of the best vehicles I've driven. I was in the market for a new car (previous car was a 2002 GTI) and I knew I wanted an Audi or a CC. That was it. I loved the Audis, but they were a bit too pricey. So I looked at the CC and right away I was hooked. In person, this is a very good-looking car. The interior is even better. The aluminum trim really makes the interior pop and the seats look amazing.
It drives exceptionally smooth. It has power and the suspension is wonderful. It also has tons of features that, if it had a Mercedes, BMW or Audi logo, would make this car WAY more expensive. I love this car and highly recommend it for someone who wants an awesome car with a ton of features without the exaggerated price tag."

"We purchased this car with high expectations due the reputation of "German Engineering". From the first month we owned it, there was always something. After researching each issue, I found that all were a common problem with this model. Broken clock spring in steering, broken wiring harness in trunk lid, intake manifold, fuel pump, destroying tires even after alignment has been done. The dealer was very helpful with each repair but each item we repaired was very overpriced due to having to use vw parts. Not impressed with engineering. Do not see us purchasing another vw. JE"